I am adding a storage building and have no open slots in my main panel for an additional circuit breaker. Can I increase a 20 amp breaker to 30 amp and tie in to that circuit for the storage building lights and plugs?
2007-07-30 13:38:30 · 7 answers · asked by Egln2 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
No, not really. The wire coming off of the breaker right now is probably a #12 which is only rated at 20 amps(for simplicity sake). You would be creating the potential for overloading that wire.
Now I don't like "piggy back" breakers but it might be a simple solution for your problem. It will be a breaker with 2 separate 15 or 20 amp breakers built in that is small enough to fit in one breaker slot. If you only need 120 volts at your building then this'll do the trick.
2007-07-30 13:47:36 · answer #1 · answered by JonBoy74 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Replacing the breaker with a double is the best and easiest solution. But if you intend to add more electrical circuits in the future, and if they may be located in another part of the house (eg addition) you may want to install a sub panel. Replace the breaker with a 60 amp breaker then with the appropriate sized wire connect to a new (small) breaker panel located in the vicinity most likely to need more power. Add breakers and wire as needed.
2007-07-31 09:10:14 · answer #2 · answered by len b 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No you can't. At least you shouldn't do it that way.
Instead of that, how about getting a couple of half breakers. These breakers are only half the size and you can put two where one orginally went.
If you are planning on adding several more circuits then you may want to get an electrician come out and put in a new panel with more room. Something like a 42 circuit 200A panel. good luck.
2007-07-30 20:44:06 · answer #3 · answered by Fordman 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Nope, don't do that. Chance of fire. The others are correct to recommend a twin breaker. They are actually two circuit breakers inside a single case and will replace one of your other breakers. They work just fine. One side will be connected to the wire on the present breaker and the other side will be available for your new circuit.
2007-07-31 21:25:30 · answer #4 · answered by John himself 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if your panel is designed and approved to accept twin breaker,do that.
The other option is set a sub-panel next to the existing panel.
There you will have to move 2 circuits from the main panel to the sub-panel,giving you 2 spaces to feed the sub-panel.You can buy a small 4,8,or 12 circuit at Home Depot or Lowes.I am sure you could consult with the local building dept. on code requirements.
Please be safe!
Be careful From taking advise here from people.Those posing as electrician's and inexperienced dyi's will get someone injured or killed or property burnt down.
2007-08-01 07:50:54 · answer #5 · answered by greg w 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i am assuming that this is a residence. the answer to your question is no, but most home panel breakers will accept what is known as a " twin ".These are breakers that have 2 on -off switches in the space of 1 regular breaker. Most large home centers have these types according to the predominant breaker in your area, or you can order one from your local electrical wholesaler.
2007-07-31 02:17:35 · answer #6 · answered by David B 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
YOU ARE FOOLING WITH FIRE!! 20A=12ga copper//30A=10ga. if you do not understand get a electrician to help you.way cheaper than death! always remember that mother nature gets rid of stupidity...she kills the offenders!
2007-07-30 21:24:57 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋